Additive manufacturing does not follow the rules of traditional manufacturing. Lattice structures, optimal geometries, and intricate internal structures may all be incorporated into component design. Some additional considerations must be made as well, such as build direction and support structure addition. Traditional CAD/CAE programs are not well suited to capitalize on these new liberties offered by additive manufacturing.

Fusion Formatics offers a range of software packages from Netfabb and solidThinking to enable you to take full advantage of your additive manufacturing technology. Netfabb specializes in file preparation for 3-D printing, as well as lattice structure implementation. solidThinking: Inspire contains design optimization algorithms as well as FEA programs. SolidThinking: Evolve assists in creating organic, free-flowing CAD models. Products from solidThinking are useful for both subtractive and additive manufacturing.